Computational Mechanics

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: German English
 
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The past few decades have seen rapid growth in the deployment of computer-assisted strategies to address practical problems. From construction and mechanical engineering disciplines such as finite element/volume calculation, to branches of medicine (e.g. biomechanics) and biology (e.g. evolution simulation), the list of areas where such strategies are applied is constantly expanding. This development is based on a fundamental concept that allows problems to be reliably analysed using complex continuum mechanics modelling, numerical processes, and experimental techniques. This concept, which comes under the heading of computational mechanics, bridges the gaps between theoretical model building, numerical processing, and experimental reality.
Engineers aiming to work in this field need a solid grounding in its governing principles. The Computational Mechanics course teaches students the underlying theory needed to apply and advance complex computer-assisted procedures. This involves correct use of models and algorithms, the correct carrying out and interpretation of experiments, and the error-free use of application programmes. These study aims involve the following elements:
  • Model building:
Linear and non-linear continuum mechanics, phenomenological materials theory, structural mechanics, materials science, and homogenisation procedures;
  • Algorithms:
Numerical discretisation and solution methods of mechanics, finite element methods, optimisation processes, and programme development;
  • Experiments:
Materials science, metrology and parameter identification of material models;
  • Applications:
Computer-assisted simulation in all areas of engineering science and engineering practice.

The course is thus interdisciplinary in nature, comprising elements of applied mechanics, engineering-focused materials technology, and various wide-ranging engineering subjects. A basic grounding in theory provides the connection between the various areas studied.
The ultimate aim of the Computational Mechanics course is to train engineers who can recognise the application possibilities and the limits of the computational models as well as be able to independently apply and enhance the existing models. In so doing, this internationally-oriented course will give students an in-depth education in the holistic treatment of mechanical problems relating to engineering science. This especially includes the interaction and integration of theoretical model building, numerical penetration, experimental verification and simulation-specific application.

Educational organisation

The Master's degree courses consist of the following elements:
  • advanced theories
  • core subjects
  • electives
  • non-technical course offerings

The Master's thesis is an examination paper which concludes the scientific education in every Master's degree course within the academic International Studies in Engineering (ISE) programme. It is used to show that a student is capable of dealing with a problem from the corresponding field of engineering sciences autonomously, using scientific methods and presenting it comprehensibly within a given period of time. The duration for work on the Master's thesis is six months.

Study abroad unit(s)

It is obligatory for German students to stay abroad for a period of three to six months.
During this time the students can:
  • participate in lectures at a foreign university and earn credits by passing the examinations, or
  • work on their final thesis

Forms of assessment

According to the examination regulations, the type and duration of the examination will be defined by the lecturer before the semester starts. Therefore, an examination can be a written test of 60 to 120 minutes or an oral examination of 30 to 60 minutes. The language of the examination is the same as the language of the lecture.

Course objectives

In both industry and universities, there is a world-wide and long-term need for engineering graduates. The ISE programme corresponds to global market conditions and was designed to match job requirements for graduates. In particular, it offers subjects of specifically international relevance. Apart from the technical qualification, the linguistic and cultural aspects offer special advantages for the graduates in a global job market and qualify them for responsible positions in international companies or for a continuation of their academic career, e.g. when undertaking a PhD.

Language requirements

Applicants must be able to demonstrate German and English language skills corresponding to Level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
At the start of the programme, students must undergo placement tests in order to determine their knowledge in both languages and be placed in the appropriate courses. Students with a language certification from a qualified institute are exempt from sitting the placement test.
During the course of the ISE Master's programme, students must work towards a level B2 certification in both German and English. Students must reach a B2 proficiency level by the time they register for the final thesis. In some individual cases, language courses are a required part of the programme.

Academic requirements

The qualification for a MSc course of study in the programme ISE is met by a student's successful completion of a related degree course of study (leading to a BSc or a comparable degree) of at least three academic years' duration in the field of natural sciences or engineering sciences or computer science. The student's average grade in the previous course of study must be 2.5 or better.
Another requirement is knowledge of German and English, at least at level B1 achieved on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Enrolment fees

All students are required to pay a social contribution of about 300 EUR per semester. The social contribution includes a semester ticket covering public transport in North Rhine-Westphalia, subsidised meals in the canteen of the university, and other services.

Costs of living

We recommend budgeting around 750 to 900 EUR per month for personal expenses.

Job opportunities

Students may be employed as student assistants at institutes within the Department of Engineering as well as by affiliated research institutions. Companies in the region also offer similar jobs.

Services and support for international students

The Support Center for (International) Engineering Students (SCIES) acts as a help desk for all study-related questions in the Department of Engineering. The mission of SCIES is to support all students at the Department of Engineering and to help them gain the most from their experience at the University of Duisburg-Essen. SCIES answers questions with regard to studies, helps in administrative matters, supports in finding accommodation, and is the first level of support for all of the students' questions.

Accommodation

Accommodation is available through the Student Services Office or on the private market. Rent for a single room in a student residence is approx. 280 EUR.
For more information, see: http://www.uni-due.de/scies/accommodation.shtml.
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